One of the greatest shows in the natural world occurs yearly in the forests and fields of the eastern United States as prolific flowers, turning leaves and colorful creatures paint the Autumn landscape.

Nature's annual autumn color festival is certainly one of the greatest shows on earth. Each fall, millions of trees in the eastern deciduous forests respond to the shorter days and cooler nights by beginning preparations for their dormant winter period. It is just business as usual for the trees, but for us, it is a spectacular display of the beauty and diversity of nature.

Begin Your Explorations!

• Fall Color Finder
  This on-line version of Laurel Hill Press' Fall Color Finder is a great primer for autumn tree identification.
• Facts & Folklore
  
  • Interview- Dr. C. Ritchie Bell, botanist
    In a recent interview with NCNatural Digest, Dr. Bell, with his wife and coauthor Dr. Lindsey, talked about their interest in botany and about Fall Color.
  • Fall Facts
    Magnificent Fall Colors only occur in a few places on earth. To give you some idea of why it happens, we have Fall Foliage Facts, reprinted from Fall Colors & Woodland Harvests
  • Scientific basis of Autumn color
    A slightly more technical explanation of why leaves turn and fall.
  • Autumn folklore
    Weather prognostication is always a great topic to ponder. Find out how the locals read the signs and see what you think the weather is going to be like in the coming months.
• *New* Photographing Fall Color
  Tips from the experts at the New York Institute of Photography can help make your fall photos the best ever.
• Wings On The Wind
  As a bonus to the autumn splendor, we are also treated to the movements of Monarch Butterflies, Hawks and many other birds through the season. It's a great time for wildlife viewing.
• Links to Regional Information
  Of course the cooler days and beautiful color are great enticements to get outside and explore, so we've provided links to regional information to find out about local color and plan your getaway.